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Star Trek Into Darkness

17 May 2013English2h 12mPart 2 of the Star Trek: Alternate Reality series
Sci-Fi
out of 10
Recommendedmost critics liked it
Monk Score · 8 scored reviews · 3 not rated

Cumberbatch's chilling villain lifts a visually thrilling but familiar sequel.

Verdict tier Recommended, most critics liked it, on a scale of Unfavorable, Mixed, Recommended, Exceptional.

  • Praised: Cumberbatch's menacing villain performance
  • Criticised: Lacks originality versus predecessor

Audience

User score 6.8 out of 10 from 5 ratings, Mixed
Read 1 audience review ↓

Not streaming in India

Top cast

Full cast & crew

Critic consensus

What 11 critics are saying

Critical reception for Star Trek Into Darkness is broadly positive, with most reviewers finding it an engaging, fast-paced spectacle that works for both franchise loyalists and newcomers. Reviewers most consistently praised the film's action sequences, visual effects, and Benedict Cumberbatch's villainous performance. Common criticisms include a lack of originality compared to the 2009 predecessor, a familiar and predictable plot, and an underdeveloped Kirk-Spock dynamic that fails to meet expectations set by the first film.

How the 8 scores spread

3 not-rated reviews aren't plotted

Positive / mixed / negative reviews

Positive = 6.5/10 and up · negative = below 5/10

AI-generated summary of 11 critic reviews · may contain errors

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From the papers

Critic reviews (11)

Top critics first, then by score · not-rated last · updated

  1. Top critic

    IBNLive

    Film review ·

    If you're willing to suspend disbelief, and even embrace the illogical, you'll be rewarded with a film that doesn't bore you even for a minute.

  2. The Sunday Indian

    Film review ·

    The plot might not boldly take you to places you haven't gone before but wherever it does take you, is a wonderful place and it would be positively Vulcan to say otherwise.

  3. Times Of India

    Film review ·

    The film will grab you from the opening shot and not let go. Despite a running time of over two hours, you won't feel as though you've been watching for that long because there's not a wasted nanosecond.

  4. Zee News

    Film review ·

    Apart from the action, whether it is the spaceship`s collision or the hand to hand combat in mid-air and the chases, what makes the film intense is the emotional politics.

  5. DNA India

    Film review ·

    Watch it regardless of whether you are a fan of the series or not. Star Trek Into Darkness will win over new audience and regale you with a three course meal of action, adventure and thrill.

  6. Hindustan Times

    Film review ·

    In effect, the sequel lacks the consistent creative vision of the 2009 outing. Nevertheless, Star Trek Into Darkness should satisfy the hardcore Trekkers while reaching out to audiences unfamiliar with the mythology surrounding the long-running space opera.

  7. KoiMoi

    Film review ·

    ...a lurid explosive which is ace for its perilous acting and stirring space action. However the excitement it invokes is familiar and the point it tries to make gets lost amidst a flurry of some breathtaking action. I am going for a 3/5 for this one. Slightly above average, the film borders on typifying Star Trek series with mostly nothing unique to offer.

  8. Rediff

    Film review ·

    Loyalists won't be disappointed for sure, and the series may even inspire some new members.

  9. GQ India

    Film review ·

    Star Trek Into Darkness does have all the ingredients that make for a summer tent-pole success, but the soggy Kirk-Spock friendship is a letdown, especially keeping in mind the expectations set by the first installment.

  10. Indian Express

    Film review ·

    Cumberbatch is easily the best thing about the film – he makes a classic villain, powerful and menacing at times, low and squirming at others, in much the same way as The Joker in the best Batman graphic novels.

  11. The Hindu

    Film review ·

    A high octane adventure powered by adrenalin, testosterone, stupendous visual effects and nostalgia. What makes Into Darkness irresistible is the homages are well thought of, and while getting the references are a big bonus, the movie can be thoroughly enjoyed free of all the background.

From our readers

Audience reviews (1)

5 ratings · user score 6.8

  1. Sandeep GuptaMay 2013
    8/10

    I am not a Star Trek follower, but I liked the reboot of Star Trek by J.J.Abrams and based on the good-will of first one, went to watch the sequel and I was not disappointed at all. The sequel has all the good part of first one and adds new characters and drama with ease. Chemistry between Kirk and Spock remain electrifying. The visuals remain with you especially if you have watched it in 3D. Dialogues are filled with humor. The movie starts in 5th gear and then pace never drops. The characters are well developed and their conflicts are believable. The movie can seem to be a bit long and heavy on eyes but it If you are looking for a spectacle of high standards with right amount of action, fun and emotion then Star Trek Into Darkness will take you to the light.

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